News from the Prime Minister's Office of Pakistan: Today, Iran's Ambassador to Pakistan, Moghaddam, met with Prime Minister Shehbaz, and both sides exchanged views on the current regional situation and peace efforts (see image).
This is one of the most relevant news items regarding the second round of U.S.-Iran negotiations following Trump's announcement of an indefinite ceasefire.
Prime Minister Shehbaz and General Munir have almost become Trump’s way out; both have endured great hardship silently.
Pakistan’s delicate mediating role may be the last hope between the U.S. and Iran.
However, if Pakistan becomes too proactive in its mediation, it could provoke skepticism among Iranians: knowing our position clearly, why does Trump hesitate so much, yet still insist we push them to the negotiating table?
For Pakistanis, being able to play this role is an immense honor; residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi have also endured inconveniences such as road closures.
Shehbaz and General Munir are serious, diligent, and responsible diplomats, but they cannot offer any guarantees regarding Trump’s behavior, as they are completely powerless to ensure that this dealmaker won’t do A, B, or C—something they truly cannot control.
Given this reality, Pakistan’s mediation has its limits; it will not go too far. Being overly eager to bring Iran into the talks could backfire.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1863162373507080/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.